Granddad would move the overstuffed chairs in front of the fireplace so he and I could enjoy its warmth while we read stories, sipped eggnog and ate delicious holiday cookies as Christmas music played on the radio. We decorated the tree with beautiful blown glass ornaments and tons of silver tinsel, and then I’d hang my stocking on the mantle for Santa to fill. To add to the magic we’d turn off all of the lights so only the fire and the soft glow of the Christmas tree lit the room.

I can still see Granddad’s living room in my mind’s eye; except for Christmas, it was never re-arranged and was always immaculate. The furniture was kind of old fashioned, but soft, and oh so comfy. A round card table by the couch always held the never-empty bowl of mixed nuts and a jigsaw puzzle. I worked on the puzzles either with Granddad, alone, or with my friends. Every Christmas Santa brought a new puzzle to add to our collection.

            The Christmas I turned eleven three of my girl friends and I decided to shop at Portland’s newly opened Lloyd Center shopping mall. I asked Dad if I could take the bus and spend the day shopping for Christmas gifts. Along with his permission, he gave me $7.00 to spend; at the time it seemed like a million dollars. With care and a little luck, my  money held out and I bought presents for everyone and even had enough left over for hot chocolate and donuts at the Hole-in-One donut shop, as well as the bus ride home.

            Lloyd Center was a wonder at Christmas time. The crowning of the Lucia Bride, which was a part of the Swedish Christmas celebration, was held at Lloyd Center. The lucky girl was crowned with a coronet of candles in the skating arena near the huge fir tree which was brought in every Christmas. The outdoor rink was packed with brightly dressed skaters who twirled and glided to festive tunes. Christmas music played on speakers throughout the entire outdoor shopping center, and carolers from schools and churches brightened the atmosphere on cold, cloudy, and rainy days. Lloyd Center was not covered then, so one had to bundle up to handle the weather and rush between covered areas to keep dry. The hustle and bustle was infectious and exhilarating and I’m sure even Scrooge would have smiled at the scene. In the sixties the holidays just weren’t complete without a trip to Lloyd Center.